The 7 Best Spare Tire Bike Racks

This wiki has been updated 21 times since it was first published in January of 2019. Traditional bike racks often won't fit SUVs and other vehicles that have an extra wheel mounted on the back. Rather than deal with trying to lift a large and unwieldy bicycle onto a roof rack, you can get one of these handy models. They quickly slip onto your spare tire and, depending on the type, can accommodate two or three cycles. Many also have security features to keep your cargo safe. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 21 times since it was first published in January of 2019. Traditional bike racks often won't fit SUVs and other vehicles that have an extra wheel mounted on the back. Rather than deal with trying to lift a large and unwieldy bicycle onto a roof rack, you can get one of these handy models. They quickly slip onto your spare tire and, depending on the type, can accommodate two or three cycles. Many also have security features to keep your cargo safe. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Thule 963Pro

The Thule 963Pro (around $250) has an extremely sturdy carbon steel frame, as well as stay-put cradles and removable anti-sway cages that prevent bike to bike contact. Not only can the unit be locked to your vehicle, but it also has a cable lock for its load.

Folds flat when not in use
Fits standard and oversized tires
Simple to put on and take off

2. Allen Sports Deluxe 322DN

The Allen Sports Deluxe 322DN (appx. $98) is one of the most affordable options, yet you wouldn't think that based on its durable build and how securely it holds bikes in place. It is designed to keep its cargo high up and far away from potentially damaging obstacles and road debris.

Accepts most frame sizes
Won't scratch rims
Seventy-pound capacity

3. Yakima 8002599

The Yakima 8002599 (about $299) is a compact unit that is easy to store when not on the vehicle. It features rubber padding at every point it comes into contact with your bicycles, so it will never damage their frames, and it even has a bottle opener for after-ride refreshments.

Works with most lug patterns
Built like a tank
Locking security knob

4. Hollywood Racks SR1

The Hollywood Racks SR1 (about $144) arrives completely assembled, so you can attach it to your vehicle immediately upon receiving it, and is designed to carry two bicycles. Unfortunately, it doesn't fit over some very thick off-road tires.

Durable powder coating
Minimal bouncing on bumpy terrain
Doesn't hinder side-opening doors

5. Saris Freedom 2

You can adjust the rack on the Saris Freedom 2 (about $500) in either direction on a horizontal plane, so it can accommodate center-, left-, and right-mounted spare tires. Weirdly, it comes with two cable locks for the bikes, though the unit itself can't be locked to the vehicle.

Manufactured in usa
Backed by a lifetime warranty
Extremely expensive

6. Allen Sports Premier S-303

The Allen Sports Premier S-303 (around $144) is a three-bike option, though we think you'd struggle to get that many adult-sized bicycles on it. It assembles quickly once unpacked, and features bottom straps that hook to the bumper to minimize bouncing.

Soft uv-resistant cradles
Frame rests on the tire not the rim
Barely shifts when turning

7. Apex Rage Powersports Blue Devil

The Apex Rage Powersports Blue Devil (appx. $138) is a very compact model that can fit on wheels up to 12.5 inches thick. It has been smartly designed with a rear reflector to minimize the chances of another car accidentally bumping into it.

Has a nice discreet look
Some find it difficult to remove
Cradles are too close together

Last updated by Brett Dvoretz

A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.

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